"Ben Carson has a brilliant mind and is passionate about strengthening communities and families within those communities," Trump said in a statement distributed by his transition team. "We have talked at length about my urban renewal agenda and our message of economic revival, very much including our inner cities. Ben shares my optimism about the future of our country and is part of ensuring that this is a Presidency representing all Americans. He is a tough competitor and never gives up," Trump added.

"I feel that I can make a significant contribution particularly by strengthening communities that are most in need," Carson, a former GOP presidential candidate who became a Trump supporter, said in the statement. "We have much work to do in enhancing every aspect of our nation and ensuring that our nation's housing needs are met."